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Research shows that work-related head injuries are increasing. Such injuries can cause cognitive, functional, and behavioral impairment that can last for years or for a lifetime. Luckily you can prevent any head injuries by wearing a hard hat.
Wearing a hard hat is one of the best ways to protect your skull and brain from possible injuries in a construction site or other high-risk work environments. These hats are specifically designed to protect your head from a fall, falling debris, collision impact, and other hazards.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requires the employer to buy his employee’s hard hat. But, unfortunately, not all employers do that, or even if they do buy the hard hat for their workers, standard-issue hard hats can feel uncomfortable. And that is why many workers decide to buy a safety hard hat for themselves.
But, there are so many choices, and choosing which one is the best hard hat for you can quickly become overwhelming. But, don’t worry, we are here to help you with that. In this article, we will take you through a review of the seven reliable, comfortable, and lightweight hard hat options so that you can get the perfect one for you completely hassle-free.
So, let’s jump right in!
7 Best Hard Hats
A good hard hat is a vital piece of personal protective equipment (PPE). If you are working in a hazardous environment, it is smart to invest in a good hard hat with at least the basic safety features. But, choosing a hard hat is a pretty important decision that should not be taken lightly.
There are myriads of hard hats with unique features, colors, and bills, but there are two main types that you should be aware of: type I hard hats and type II hard hats. When searching for the best hard hat for you, you need to bear in mind their class and type, social proof, fit, material, protection, and other features that we will discuss in detail below.
PYRAMEX Ridgeline Full Brim Hard Hat Type I
The first hard hat on our list is the PYRAMEX Ridgeline Full Brim Hard Hat Type I. This hard hat is a best-seller on Amazon for many reasons. It is relatively inexpensive, it is comfortable, and it provides excellent protection.
The PYRAMEX Ridgeline Full Brim Hard Hat is a superb choice for most workers, especially for electricians. It is tested for 20.000 volts, so you don’t need to worry about your hair getting burned.
PYRAMEX Ridgeline Full Brim Hard Hat Type I is made of Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene, so it can tolerate about 105°C. Because of its material and full-brim style, this hard hat provides excellent protection from the sun and falling objects, making it perfect for construction workers or other workers who stay outdoors in the sun for long periods of time.
The PYRAMEX Ridgeline Full Brim Hard Hat Type I is a favorite among construction workers; it is lightweight and comfortable yet strong and rigid enough for protection.
Key Features
PYRAMEX Ridgeline Full Brim Hard Hat Type I is a fantastic choice for those who work in a hazardous environment. Take a look at its key features:
- The PYRAMEX Ridgeline Full Brim Hard Hat Type is constructed from ABS material – Strong and rigid but lightweight for a seemingly weightless protection
- Simple adjustable ratchet suspension
- Replaceable soft brow pad, suspensions, and headbands
- Meets ANSI Z89.1-2009 standards, type I, Class C, G, and E
- Sits lower on the head
- Made in the United States or imported
Pros
- Strong and rigid yet lightweight
- Comfortable, secure, and snug fit
- Meets virtually all safety guidelines
- Looks great
- Simple to adjust ratchet suspension system
- It can be used for electric work
- Affordable
Cons
- The paint is prone to get scratched and chipped sooner than expected
- Too high and big shell design
Social proof
The PYRAMEX Ridgeline Full Brim Hard Hat Type I has an Amazon score of 4.7 out of 5 with over 7,504 global ratings.
Based on customer reviews, the PYRAMEX Ridgeline Full Brim Hard Hat Type has a:
- 4.8 score for lightweight
- 4.7 score for comfort
- 4.6 score for durability
Having a tight budget does not mean that you should compromise your safety, and with this hard hat, you would not have to. You definitely can’t go wrong with this hard hat; it is pretty cheap and offers high protection.
Malta Dynamics 4 pt. Ratchet Cap Style Hard Hat
The Malta Dynamics 4 pt. Ratchet Cap Style Hard Hat complies with the OSHA and ANSI standards. It encircles your head entirely with a brim giving you maximum protection while on the job—the Malta Dynamics 4 pt. Ratchet Cap Style Hard Hat protects you against splash, glare, and sun exposure.
Furthermore, the rugged, ultra-light polyethylene shell holds up to harsh weather conditions and keeps you safe and comfortable all day long.
Key Features
The Malta Dynamics 4 pt. Ratchet Cap Style Hard Hat offers maximum head protection when working in a hazardous environment, and it is also very comfortable. As one review read: “It’s comfortable, lightweight, and up to code.”
Here are the Malta Dynamics 4 pt. Ratchet Cap Style Hard Hat’s main features:
- Comfortable, secure, and snug fit
- Reliable protection against falling objects and harsh weather conditions
- Vents on top of the hard hat increase air circulation, keeping your head cool and comfortable all day long
- Rugged but lightweight polyethylene shell that holds up to tough punishment
- Easy size adjustments
- Meets with ANSI/ISEA Z89.1, Type I, Class E & G
- Affordable
- Comes with a limited lifetime warranty
- Made in the United States
Pros
- Comfortable
- Easy to adjust
- Super affordable
- Offers maximum protection
- Relatively lightweight
Cons
- Some find it difficult to assemble
Social proof
Malta Dynamics 4 pt. Ratchet Cap Style Hard Hat has an Amazon score of 4.4 out of 5 with over 121 global reviews.
Based on customer reviews, the Pyramex Ridgeline Full Brim Hard Hat has a:
- 5.0 score for value for money
- 4.7 score for light weight
- 4.3 score for comfort
- 4.3 score for value for money
You can purchase the Malta Dynamics 4 pt. Ratchet Cap Style Hard Hat on Amazon. This hard hat is one of the best hats that you can get on a budget.
LIFT SAFETY DAX FIFTY 50 CARBON FIBER FULL BRIM HARD HAT
The DAX FIFTY50 CARBON FIBER TYPE I HARD HAT meets the ANSI Z89. 1 testing for protecting the head from impacts and penetrations. That includes tools, debris, and other items falling from a reasonable height or whacking your head on low-hanging objects. So, you can rest assured that this hard hat is going to give you the best protection when working.
The LIFT Safety DAX Fifty 50 Carbon Fiber Full Brim Hard Hat is a great hard hat for most workers that need head protection. However, this product is not for electricians because it does not provide electrical protection.
Key Features
The DAX FIFTY50 CARBON FIBER TYPE I HARD HAT has a cool modern design, provides maximum protection, and is very comfortable to wear the entire day. Here are some main features of this hard hat:
- Carbon fiber reinforced resin material for superior impact protection
- Type Rating: Type I, Class C
- 6-point suspension system for maximum comfort
- EVA foam insert to absorb the impact from a hit or fall, and the sweat from your head
- Snug and secure fit
Pros
- Maximum head protection
- Comfortable to wear all day long
- Easy to adjust fitment dial
- Looks great
Cons
- Expensive
- Does not offer electrical protection
Social proof
The LIFT Safety DAX Fifty 50 Carbon Fiber Full Brim Hard Hat has an Amazon score of 4.6 out of 5 with over 2,110 global ratings.
Based on customer reviews, the LIFT Safety DAX Fifty 50 Carbon Fiber Full Brim Hard Hat has a:
- 4.3 score for light weight
- 4.2 score for value for money
- 4.1 score for comfort
- 4.0 score for durability
The LIFT Safety DAX Fifty 50 Carbon Fiber Full Brim Hard Hat is on the more expensive side. But, it is also one of the best hard hats that you can find. It is made with durable, high-quality materials, a 6-point system for suspension, and an EVA foam insert, to keep your skull and brain safe from any hit or impact. Plus, it will keep your head cool and fresh all day long.
MSA 454670 Skullgard Full-Brim Hard Hat
The MSA 454670 Skullgard Full-Brim Hard Hat is known for its durability, toughness, and high quality. It protects workers from impact and heat hazards in industrial and fire environments. Furthermore, this hard hat has been tested to radiant heat loads with temperatures up to 350-degrees Fahrenheit. The MSA 454670 Skullgard Full-Brim Hard Hat is usable in a variety of industries such as steel mills, construction, open-pit mining, oil/gas/petrochemical refineries, rubber manufacturing, welding, steam tunnels, and so on.
Also, this hard hat is surprisingly comfortable because of its flush rear lug attachments, which eliminate pressure points, three levels of nape strap adjustment for a perfect customized fit, and graspable ratchet with smooth rotation and steadfast hold. The ratchet comfort pad adds to the hat’s comfort by improving airflow and preventing hair-pulling.
Key Features
The MSA 454670 Skullgard Full-Brim Hard Hat provides superior protection against falling objects, impact, and heat. It also offers comfort all day long, thanks to its high-quality materials and design. Here are its key features:
- Phenolic material
- High-quality protection from impact and temperatures up to 350 °F
- Crafted for durability, toughness, and high-quality
- 4-point Staz-On suspension system to keep the helmet in place
- Snug and secure fit
- Variety of sizes and colors
- Meets all the applicable requirements for a Type I hard hat as outlined in ANSI/ISEA Z89.1-2014 (Class G).
Pros
- High-quality protection
- Superior quality
- Snug and comfortable fit
- Durable
Cons
- Expensive
Social proof
Based on customer reviews, the MSA 454670 Skullgard Full-Brim Hard Hat has an Amazon score of 4.7 out of 5 with over 5.244 global reviews.
Based on customer reviews, the Pyramex Ridgeline Full Brim Hard Hat has a:
- 3.8 score for value for money
- 4.5 score for light weight
- 4.5 score for comfort
- 4.5 score for durability.
You can find the MSA 454670 Skullgard Full-Brim Hard Hat on Amazon. So, if you want a safe and comfortable hard hat to wear while working, then this one is an excellent choice.
AMSTON Safety Type I Hard Hat
The Amston Safety type I Hard Hat is an affordable piece of personal protective equipment that meets the ANSI Z89.1-2014 standards. It is designed keeping your safety in mind, whatever your job may be. It works for carpenters, mechanics, plumbers, warehouse laborers, welders, and construction workers.
Key Features
The AMSTON Safety Type I Hard Hat is lightweight but provides sufficient protection for your head. It has a vented top that improves airflow and reduces heat to keep your head fresh and cool. The AMSTON Safety Type I Hard Hat’s features are:
- Meets ANSI Z89.1-2014 standards
- Includes universal accessory attachment slots for PPE such as earmuffs, dust masks, and eyewear.
- Adjustable
- Lightweight
- The short brim offers better upwards visibility
- The top ventilation ports enhance airflow and reduce heat
Pros
- Meets ANSI Z89.1-2014 standards
- Adjustable
- Lightweight
- Comfortable
- Vented top
- Includes accessory attachments
Cons
- Some find that it does not fit snuggly and it slips or wobbles
Social proof
Based on customer reviews, the Amston Safety type I Hard Hat has an Amazon score of 4.6 out of 5 with over 608 global reviews.
Based on customer reviews the AMSTON Safety Type I Hard Hat has a:
- 4.8 score for value for money
- 4.8 score for light weight
- 4.7 score for comfort
You can buy the AMSTON Safety Type I Hard Hat on Amazon. For a safe and lightweight hard hat that fits within your budget, the AMSTON Safety Type I Hard Hat is pretty hard to beat.
OccuNomix VCB200-06 Vulcan Cowboy Style Hard
For all the cowboy lovers, this hard hat protect you while being on style. This hat has a wider brim, and it has all the safety features that a hard hat should have. Plus, it provides excellent UV protection, so it is perfect for working under the sun. Made in the land of cowboys, this is a high-quality hard hat suitable for various work settings.
Key Features
- 6-point deluxe nylon ratchet suspension and front cotton terry sweatband
- Meets ANSI Z89.1 Type 1, Class E & G
- Wider brim offers more sun protection
- Hard hat shell made in the United States
Pros
- Best selling cowboy-style hard hat
- Unique design
- High protection from impact
- Excellent protection from UV rays
- Made in the USA
Cons
- Heavier than other hard hats
- Bad ventilation
Social proof
Based on customer reviews, the OccuNomix VCB200-06 Vulcan Cowboy Style Hard Hat has an Amazon score of 4.2 out of 5 with over 2,304 global reviews.
Based on customer reviews, the OccuNomix VCB200-06 Vulcan Cowboy Style Hard Hat has a:
- 4.0 score for value for money
- 3.8 score for comfort
- 4.2 score for durability
- 4.2 for sun protection
You can find the OccuNomix VCB200-06 Vulcan Cowboy Style Hard Hat on Amazon. It is a great hat with a unique design and excellent protection. So, if you want to stand out and wear a safe hard hat on a budget, get yourself an OccuNomix VCB200-06 Vulcan Cowboy Style Hard Hat.
Evolution Deluxe 6161 280-EV6161-10 Full Brim Hard Hat
The Evolution Deluxe 6161 280-EV6161-10 Full Brim Hard Hat is available in two high visibility colors (green and orange) and grey and white. This hat meets Type I hard hat, Class C requirements, and it is a great value option. It is sufficiently comfortable and safe, and thanks to its 6-point suspension system, it caters to your head’s dimensions perfectly. Plus, it’s surprisingly budget-friendly.
Key Features
- Polyethylene material
- Meets ANSI/ISEA Z89.1-2009, Type I, Class C requirements
- High-density polyethylene shell with a brim to provide extra protection against sun, glare, rain, or falling debris.
- The six-point suspension system provides comfort without compromising performance
- The 3D adjustment offers a precise and comfortable fit
Pros
- Excellent protection against falling objects as well as UV rays
- Offers superior comfort
- Affordable
Cons
- Ventilation needs improvement
- Not very durable
Social proof
Based on customer reviews, the Evolution Deluxe 6161 280-EV6161-10 Full Brim Hard Hat has an Amazon score of 4.5 out of 5 with over 3,012 global reviews.
Based on customer reviews, the Evolution Deluxe 6161 280-EV6161-10 Full Brim Hard Hat has a:
- 4.4 score for value for money
- 4.4 score for light weight
- 4.3 score for comfort
- 4.2 score for durability
The Evolution Deluxe 6161 280-EV6161-10 Full Brim Hard Hat is pretty affordable; you can purchase it on Amazon. This hard hat offers protection against impact and falling objects; it is comfortable and surprisingly cheaper than other hard hats with similar features.
What to Look for When Buying a Hard Hat
Safety is of paramount importance. So, before you purchase a hard hat, we recommend that you check the class and type, fit, material, and protection of that hat. Some workplaces have a hard hat colored code, which helps to identify specific workers quickly.
Class and type
The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) divided hard hats into types and classes. The type category informs you of the kind of protection that your hard hat can offer. These categories are divided into:
- Type I hard hats: they provide vertical protection (the top of the head)
- Type II hard hats: these hard hats offer lateral protection (the top and sides of the head)
On the other hand, the hard hat classes are divided into three categories based on their abilities to handle electricity. These are:
- Class G hard hats: these hard hats are for general use, and they are proof tested to 2,200 volts.
- Class E hard hats: these hard hats are for electrical use, and they are proof tested to 20,000 volts.
- Class C hard hats: these are hats with conductive elements, which protect your head from impact only. So, they do not protect against electrical hazards.
Choose one that is best for your job. If you work with electricity, it is a good idea to buy a hard hat that has been tested and provides protection against electrical hazards. But, if you are more concerned about protecting your head from impacts, we suggest that you choose a general rated (G-rated) or a Class C hard hat.
Fit
We recommend that you look for a hard hat that fits your head size perfectly because a small or large head will not provide adequate protection. Thus, it is dangerous to use. Luckily, many hard hats come with an adjustable strap so that you can fit the hat to your head size.
Material
Hard hats are usually made of these materials:
- Fiberglass: This is probably the strongest material used for making hard hats, so it offers excellent protection from impact. Fiberglass can withstand high temperatures, which makes fiberglass hard hats best for working in hot conditions.
- High-density polyethylene (HDPE): HDPE is a very durable material; it can resist impact, and more affordable hard hats are usually made of this material.
- Phenolic resin: This is a synthetic polymer developed as an alternative to plastic hard hats. It is stronger than plastic and has reasonable insulation from electricity.
- Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) Plastic: ABS plastic can absorb high impact in a thinner material. So, if you want a lightweight and affordable hard hat, this material is great for you.
Protection
Hard hats are an essential part of your protective equipment, and they are specially designed to protect your head from injuries. But, not all hard hats are the same or include the right safety features. So, always check if the hard hat that you want to buy is reviewed and approved by The American National Standards Institute (ANSI).
The Bottom Line
Choosing the right hard hat for your job is of paramount importance. The right hard hat will protect you from impact, falling objects, electricity, or even UV rays while you are working.
But with all the options available, it can get hard to pick one that fits your needs and preferences. And that is why we made a review of the best hard hats to help you choose the right hat for you.
We hope that this article has been helpful for you. And remember, wear your hard hat every day while working to stay safe and protected.
